A MANHUNT has been launched to find York offender John Alcock.

Alcock, 46, failed to appear before York Crown Court on Tuesday, to answer a charge of common assault. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and also for breaching his bail conditions.

Officers have carried out checks at address throughout York in effort to locate Alcock, who is believed to still be in the city, and have urged people to report sightings of anyone matching his description.

Alcock is described as white, about 5ft 6in tall, with a medium build, brown hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.